jon: "happening now", negative shubs to avoid the looming fiscal cliff on two issues, raising tax rates and cutting entitlement spending. republicans want to raise revenue through capping loopholes and deductions. democrats say no deal without rate hikes for wealthy americans. although the democrats say they are open to entitlement reform, details from that side of the aisle seem to be slim and powerful liberal groups like the aarp are spending big money on ads to make sure lawmakers do not touch the nation's safety net programs. so, are democrats reluctant to talk about entitlements? if so, why? let's bring in our panel. simon rosenberg, founder of ndn and former clinton campaign advisor. chris wilson, former gop consultant and former director of the texas republican party. welcome to both of you. simon, i know you say the republican focus on reducing taxes you think is all wet? >> no. i think we're seeing progress here. i think that there is a chance, there could be a big deal done by the end of the year, first few months of next year, that involve four pieces right? raising taxes, re